Weso so proud of his team

man behind the mask: James Wesolowski hurdles a challenge from Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard.

MASKED midfield dynamo James Wesolowski enjoyed every minute of his barnstorming performance at Anfield.

Even if he did follow it by ‘only’ exchanging shirts with Liverpool’s Brazilian international Lucas Leiva.

Aussie ace Wesolowski (26) returned to Athletic’s starting XI with a protective cover on his face and eyes after fracturing his cheekbone in the second-round victory at Mansfield Town before Christmas.

He was arguably the visitors’ star man against Brendan Rodgers’ multi-millionaire Premier League stars, but despite ending up on the losing side he will cherish getting his chance to pit his wits against world-class opposition in front of a sell-out crowd of more than 44,000.

Wesolowski said: “It’s one of the special grounds in the Premier League. Everyone talks about how great the atmosphere is and the history of the club, but we beat them last season and that was special for us.

“I got Lucas’s shirt after the game and I was absolutely made up with that, but Korey (Smith) got Steven Gerrard’s and he's buzzing with it.

“It’s just been a terrific experience.”

“We’ve had our fun day out now though, we have to get back to the serious stuff next weekend and start moving back up that league table.”